A phenolic primer is a substance that is applied to a metal surface as a prep coat to prevent absorption of other coats that will be applied later. It proceeds by thermosetting, resulting from the reaction of phenols with aldehydes.

Phenolic primer as a quick-drying coating that is applied to metal surfaces to prevent corrosion. It is formulated to accommodate a variety of topcoats and is applied prior to topcoat application. Its service is optimized on metal surfaces exposed to an oxygen-containing atmosphere.
